With just butter and sage, this brown butter sauce recipe transforms plain pasta into something deeply rich, nutty, and aromatic. Swipe to make it!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
Browning butter unlocks a depth that tastes luxurious without adding cream. The sage crisps in the butter, and when spooned over pasta, every bite feels comforting.
INGREDIENTS FOR THE SAUCE
– 120g Butter,
– 20 sage leaves (fresh)
– Salt, to taste (if using unsalted butter)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
Add the cubed butter to a wide frying pan and place it over medium heat. Let it melt completely.
STEP 1: START THE BUTTER
STEP 2: ADD THE SAGE
Once the butter begins to sizzle, add the sage leaves directly to the pan. They will start to crisp and release their aroma into the butter.
STEP 3: BROWN THE BUTTER SLOWLY
Continue cooking the butter, gently swirling the pan so it heats evenly. The butter will bubble vigorously, if it browns too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
STEP 4: WATCH FOR THE COLOR CHANGE
After a few minutes, a layer of foam will form on top. Swirl the pan occasionally. This process takes about 5 minutes.
STEP 5: REMOVE AT THE RIGHT MOMENT
As soon as the milk solids at the bottom turn golden brown, remove the pan from the heat.
STEP 6: TOSS WITH PASTA
Spoon the brown butter over the cooked pasta. Skim some of the foamy bubbles from the top and add them as well. Toss gently to coat.
STEP 7: FINISH & SERVE
Season lightly with salt if needed and serve immediately while warm and aromatic.
PRO TIPS
- Cut butter into cubes before melting for consistent cooking
- Use simple pasta shapes like gnocchi, ravioli, or squash-filled pastas
- Spoon over scallops, shrimp, or roasted chicken
Want the full measurements, step-by-step instructions, and more tips? Click "learn more" or swipe up for the recipe.